Peter Wood and his fellow investors in Esure stand to share a fortune of as
much as £500 million after firing the starting gun on its stock market
listing.

The insurance entrepreneur, who founded Esure in 2000, could pocket about £200
million if the home and motor insurer reaches the hoped-for valuation of £1
billion.

Mr Wood, who rebuffed any suggestions yesterday that he might move his wealth
offshore, owns 48 per cent of Esure after leading a management buyout from
Lloyds Banking Group. As part of the listing plan, he will reduce his
holding to about 30 per cent